The Lord Mayor's Show is one of London's most enduring and historic events, with a history dating back over 800 years. It marks the annual celebration of the Lord Mayor of the City of London, who is elected each year to represent the City and its interests. The tradition began in 1215 when King John granted a charter allowing the citizens to elect their own mayor.
Taking place every November, this grand procession showcases London's rich history and reflects its modern diversity. The event starts with the arrival of the Lord Mayor in a golden carriage, a sight that has become iconic over the centuries. This procession follows a route from Mansion House to the Royal Courts of Justice, where the Lord Mayor swears allegiance to the Crown.
One of the fascinating aspects of The Lord Mayor's Show is the eclectic mix of participants, with around 6,000 people, including military units, charities, livery companies, and even school children, making it a colorful and lively exhibition of London's vibrant community spirit. The vibrant costumes and carefully decorated floats enthrall spectators year after year.
The ceremonial coach used by the Lord Mayor dates back to 1757 and is a marvel of craftsmanship, featuring intricate gilded carvings and ornate decorations. It's an essential part of the spectacle and an unforgettable sight for those attending the show. This coach is so revered that it is housed in the Museum of London for the rest of the year.
An interesting quirk about the event is its unexpected longevity. Despite London's ever-changing landscape and numerous historical upheavals, The Lord Mayor's Show has taken place annually since the early 13th century, with no exceptions, not even during wartime. This steadfast tradition is a testament to its significance in the City's cultural calendar.
Throughout its history, The Lord Mayor's Show has always been about entertaining the public and celebrating the city, with fireworks and various festivities enhancing the procession. Today's event continues to evolve with elements of pageantry, military precision, and playful creativity that appeal to all ages.
In addition to tradition, The Lord Mayor's Show plays a significant role in introducing and advocating for charitable causes. Each year, the Lord Mayor supports a variety of charitable initiatives, leveraging the attention garnered by the event to raise awareness and funds for important causes.
Making the Most of Your Visit:
Arrive Early: The parade is one of London's most popular events, and crowds can build up quickly. Arriving early will help you secure a good spot along the route to get the best view of the procession. Plus, there's often pre-parade entertainment, so you won't be bored while you wait.
Plan Your Spot: Consider where you want to view the parade from. The best spots are along the Embankment and Fleet Street, where you'll get a great view of the iconic landmarks as the backdrop. Remember, the parade returns along the same route, so you could catch both the outgoing and returning march.
Check Out the Fireworks: The show is capped off with an impressive firework display over the Thames. For the best views, head down towards the river between Waterloo and Blackfriars bridges in the evening, but be prepared for some post-event hustle as everyone makes their way to this popular spot.
Explore the Side Events: There are often various side events, exhibitions, and activities happening around the City on the day of the parade. These events can be a wonderful addition to your experience, giving you a broader sense of the celebration's heritage and community spirit.
Bring Refreshments: While there will be food stalls and nearby cafes, having some snacks and a drink on hand will keep you comfortable, especially if you plan to stick around for the entire event. It can be a long day, and the convenience is worth it when you're amidst the crowds.
Visiting Times & Costs:
Public Access: The Lord Mayor's Show is open to the public and is a free event. No tickets are required to attend the procession.
Timing: The event takes place annually on the second Saturday of November, with the main procession usually starting in the late morning and lasting several hours.
Cost: Attendance at The Lord Mayor's Show is free. Some side events or exhibitions may have separate admission fees, but these are not part of the main procession.
Accessibility: The parade route is accessible to the public; however, as with many large public events, crowds may pose some challenges for people with mobility impairments. There are designated areas for wheelchair users, but these can fill up quickly, so early arrival is advisable. The City of London Corporation provides accessible viewing areas and information for visitors requiring assistance.
Address & Map:
Nearby:
